2 minute read
Tips for Buying American Made
from folk 2019 | Preview
by FOLK
1. Invest in pieces that will be timeless. Luggage and bags are the best place to start.
2. Shop markets and fairs for handmade jewelry. Get the pieces in your hand to make sure they’re well made and will hold up. Look at Hobby Lobby to see if their pieces are sourced from there.
Advertisement
3. Check the stitching in denim. Is the crotch going to rip out fast. The US made denim industry is plagued with poor quality. Some brands will last a lifetime. Some brands won’t last a season. When in doubt hold off buying and grab a pair of Levi’s instead.
4. When buying bags look at the stitching and the seams. If you can see between the pieces of leather the piece will not hold up.
5. Most candle companies source their scents from the same bulk supplier. A $5 candle and a $45 candle often times both have the same scents. Go for brands like PF Candle Co that have custom mixed scents rather than the bulk standards.
6. A brand may say it’s American made, but in reality may only produce a small percentage of their goods in the US. Don’t buy blindly thinking it’s all made here. Woolrich makes their blankets in the US. The majority of the clothes are made in Asia. New Balance makes a small percentage of their shoes in the US. Their US shoes are worth the investment.
7. If you’re looking to invest in boots, American Made is the answer. Red Wings can be passed down for generations. Go for Asian made sneakers and save up for American Made boots.
8. The best way to be introduced to American made makers is by going to markets and fairs. See the products in person. Meet the makers and hear their stories. My favorites are American Field on the east coast, the Country Living Fairs in the east, Made South in the south, and Liberty Fairs in the major cities.
9. Follow makers and brands on social media, you’ll save by watching for sales and buying directly from the maker.
10. Don’t feel obligated to buy American Made all the time. Buy what you like, when you can. Don’t waste money on things you’ll quickly tire of simply because it’s American made.
